In a major step toward advancing U.S. infrastructure innovation, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today an $8 million federal partnership between the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure (ARPA-I) and the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC). The initiative will accelerate development of next-generation bridge technology through the X-BRIDGE program. 

The X-BRIDGE project aims to deliver bridges at half the cost, in half the time, and with twice the service life of conventional infrastructure. The initiative will leverage advanced composite materials and AI-assisted design tools to streamline bridge construction and reduce lifecycle maintenance costs. 

“The Advanced Structures and Composites Center has long been a leader in this innovative space,” said Senator Collins. “This investment will support cutting-edge research that has the potential to revolutionize how we construct our nation’s bridges—saving taxpayers money while creating good-paying jobs here in Maine.” 

Dr. Habib Dagher, Executive Director of ASCC, emphasized the impact of the grant: “We are delighted that ARPA-I has selected the University of Maine for this inaugural grant competition. This funding will allow us to develop the X-BRIDGE system, increasing construction speed, service life, and long-term cost savings.” 

The total project scope includes a base year budget of $8 million and up to two additional option years of $6 million each, potentially totaling $20 million. Key milestones will include system design, prototyping, and a large-scale deployment. 

Senator Collins has also secured over $18 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for UMaine’s ASCC through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, further underlining the federal government’s commitment to high-impact infrastructure innovation. 

Source: www.collins.senate.gov